[Grimlock]

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I've been going kinda crackers trying to figure this out: I'm currently using this crappy Phoenix DB-2 flash that cost me $50, but it's just a dumb flash (in more ways than one). I've been finding myself shooting more and more in dimly-lit setting in large rooms (like conventions and the like), so the built-in flash isn't cutting it. I shoot a LOT in portrait orientation, so the 360 flash isn't really that suitable unless I get a special flash bracket and the off-shoe adapter, but all that can cost almost as much as the 540 flash, but I can't afford all that; I just shelled out over $500 in the past couple of weeks on getting a Katz-Eye screen installed, a Sigma 17-70 2.8, and a 50mm 1.4 K-type lens, so my wallet is already flat-lined. I thought about the Sigma 500 DG; it's bounce angle wouldn't bother me since I'd swivel it and use a diffuser, but the reviews I keep finding about its build-quality are scaring me off. I can't find the Sigma 500 Super for less than what the 360 flash is going for (which is already out of my price range), and I haven't been able to find much on Promaster or Metz flashes that might be within my range. Right now, I'm trying to keep things under $150, and even that's really stretching it. Can anyone point me in the right direction, if there is one? Thanks in advance.

[roscot]

You might consider something like a used Pentax AF280T. You can find them in great condition for around US$100. I know this is not a P-TTL flash, but you can use it in Thyrsitor auto mode. In fact there are tons of older flashes like this you could use. Just make sure the trigger voltage is less than 25v.
KEH has several now for $69.00 in EX condition.
http://www.keh.com/OnLineStore/ProductDetail.aspx?groupsku=PK219990375860&br...BCL=&GBC=&GCC=

If you want new, there is the Sigma EF530 DG ST. Same as the super without some of the bells and whistles. Adorama has it for US$189.00. The build although not great, is not bad either. I've banged my 500 DG Super around for a couple of years, and it hasn't failed yet.

[barondla]

Pentax is bringing out a new P-ttl flash that will sell for around $150. It is smaller and less complicated than the 360. The flash is due anytime.
thanks
barondla

[stewart_photo]

If you're talking about the Pentax AF-200FG Flash (P-TTL, GN 20 at ISO 100, $149 US), Barondla, it's available right now.

stewart

[AVANT]

If you don't mind slighly used, i believe there is someone selling a 360 flash for $150, then you get the bounce flash and wireless ability as well.. Can't vouch for the sellar tho, just saying I ran into such a posting.

[Grimlock]

Anyone have an opinion on these 2?:

TTL Dedicated AF Flash for Pentax K100D Samsung Pro 815 - (eBay item 130156982214 end time Oct-01-07 18:27:27 PDT)

DEDICATED PTTL FLASH FOR PENTAX st ist istD istDS istDL - (eBay item 200156257443 end time Oct-01-07 17:04:45 PDT)

I found that the 2nd one is available from Wal-Mart online, but for more than the ebayer wants. Right now, bounce & swivel capability is just as important as P-TTL to me.

[PaulF]

They surely are cheap.

The first one does, however, not look like a PTTL flash, but only TTL. The listing never mentions PTTL, which makes me suspicious.

The second listing mentions PTTL, so it probably is.

Just my few comments.

[barondla]

Yep Stewart, thats the flash. Got ours in at the store today. Pentax really needed this flash. An affordable entry level p-ttl flash. No bounce though. Won't help op.
thanks
barondla

[Deni]

Another cheap flash:

Only $60

[bonovox]

Sigma EF-500 for under $140:

Sigma EF-500 DG ST P-TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Pentax AF with P-TTL Operation (159109) -

[lapeen]

Another cheap flash:

Only $60

Is this one any good?? TOTALLY within my price range

[Deni]

Is this one any good?? TOTALLY within my price range

Buy it and let us know .

[Arjay Bee]

The Sigma DG500ST works well for me - price was a factor but I find it throws the light I need when I need it.

[raider]

I have placed an order for the Sigma EF530 DG ST-PTTL. It is about the cost of AF360FGZ.

[Grimlock]

Thought I'd update this thread a bit-I ended up ordering the Digital Concepts flash last week through WalMart (it was on clearance for about the same as the Ebay price, plus WalMart's return policy is pretty good). Got it, stuck it on my 100d, turned them both on-and it's NOT P-TTL. (don't ya just love it when Ebayers LIE.) Although it correctly read my lens position and iso info from the camera, it would ALWAYS fire at FULL POWER unless the flash was put into manual mode. No other setting on the flash or my K100d had any effect. So confirming that the flash was just plain TTL, I emailed Digital Concepts to see if there was a firmware upgrade or such for the camera that would add P-TTL support. They email me back asking that I call into their support line, and I get someone who's basically clueless about the flash. He goes confer with someone and the only thing he says he can suggest is try using the flash with rechargeable batteries, as there is no update for the flash. Just returned it to WalMart tonight. I think I'm either just gonna get the 360 flash or one of the Sigma Supers. It just depends on my finances over the next couple of months, with Christmas and all coming up.